In the framework of the research project “Soil ageing around offshore wind turbine foundations – from operational response to decommissioning” (SAGE-SAND), we are looking for a motivated and computational mechanics-oriented postdoctoral researcher with an interest in advanced numerical modeling to realistically predict pile drivability and extractability.
This postdoctoral position is part of the research project “Soil ageing around offshore wind turbine foundations – from operational response to decommissioning” (SAGE-SAND) that is co-supervised by different academic partners (KULeuven, UCLouvain, ULiège). The project focuses on foundations for Offshore Wind Turbines (OWT), which are characterized by large installation costs and environmental impact. In order to improve both of these aspects, the project investigates the evolution during multiple years of soils’ mechanical properties, i.e. soil ageing, and the alternative use of vibratory driving for installation and decommissioning of offshore (mono)piles. Unique full-scale tests with extensive monitoring, advanced laboratory tests, and numerical modeling at multiple spatial scales will provide guidelines for future design. The project has a duration of 3 years and includes large scale in-situ pile tests and monitoring, advanced micromechanical characterization and testing (SEM, X-ray microtomography,…), micromechanical modelling (discrete element method, phase field modelling,…), and nonlinear dynamic modelling of the pile-soil system at the macroscale.
The postdoctoral position focuses on advanced numerical modeling of pile installation and extraction at the macro-scale, accounting for the liquefaction behavior of the soil to realistically predict pile drivability and extractability. The soil-pile system is modeled by means of the Material Point Method (MPM), accounting for dynamic soil-structure interaction and the presence of pore water.
For more information please contact Stijn François (stijn.francois@kuleuven.be) or Hadrien Rattez (UCLouvain, hadrien.rattez@uclouvain.be).
You can apply for this job online no later than October 18, 2023
More information on the application procedure is available on this website: https://www.kuleuven.be/personeel/jobsite/jobs/60258491